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How to Feed your new born Baby

Having a new baby comes with new responsibilities, and many uncertainties. One of the first decisions you must make is how you will feed your infant. Some parents choose to go with breast-feeding, but not all of our bodies or babies cooperate with this decision, so the other option is formula. Next you must decide whether you will feed your baby when he/she gets hungry, or set up a feeding schedule. After you finally get the hang of whatever feeding style you have chosen, before you know it, its time to introduce solids! This article will give you more information and answer your questions when it comes to feeding your baby.

Breast feeding

As mentioned earlier there are factors to consider when choosing if you will breastfeed or bottle feed. If you are able to breastfeed and that is your decision, then make sure you have a few cans of formula available as well just in case you start to produce less milk. Also if you get sick, it is recommended that you don’t breastfeed while taking some medications.

The proper way to warm a bottle

Whether you decide to breast feed or bottle feed, if the milk has been in the refrigerator, you will want to warm it up. Microwaving a bottle may seem like he most logical solution but it is not recommended. Microwaves create hot spots that may burn your baby’s mouth. There are two options: Either let the bottle sit at room temperature or immerse it in a pan of warm water. Bottle warmers can be great tools as well.

Solid foods

When your baby is around six months, they will be ready for solid foods. It is not recommended to start earlier due to the fact that an infants' gag reflex may be too strong to allow them to swallow non-liquids safely. When feeding your toddler in a high chair always make sure you fasten the safety belt as you are making their food. Some toddlers tend to try to stand in the chair and may fall. Place a few small toys on the tray to amuse your baby so they don’t get cranky. Empty half of the baby food into a bowl when feeding. It is not recommended to feed them right out of the jar due to the bacteria introduced if they decide not to eat the whole jar. The best food to start off with is an iron-fortified rice cereal. It is easily digested by most babies and helps to ease the transition away from formula or breast milk. Even though your baby is on solid foods now, you will need to continue with formula or breast milk until your baby is around 12 months old. To provide a nutritional boost, you can mix formula or breast milk with the cereal as well. Introduce new foods one at a time, at about three day intervals. This allows enough time for you to see if your baby is allergic to one particular food. At around seven months, your baby will be ready for table foods like pasta, small pieces of fruit, and vegetables. At this age they should be able to handle them without gagging. You can add yogurt and cottage cheese to your baby’s diet when they are around eight to ten months old.

 

How to protect your baby from H1N1 (swine flu)

The flu can be a difficult time for any person, and can be even worse for an infant. As we approach another flu season, follow these tips to keep your baby protected from the flu, and the new strand H1N1. One of the best things you can do is wash your hands and your baby's hands often. When you get home, make it a habit to take your baby straight to the kitchen sink and wash both of your hands with antibacterial soap. A good idea is also to carry hand sanitizer with you when you are out in case you need to quickly disinfect. Breast-feeding your baby is a good way to strengthen their immune system. Disinfect your home. The flu virus can live on surfaces for up to eight hours, so disinfect areas such as doorknobs, counters, light switches, and baby's toys to prevent your baby from touching a contaminated surface. Carry disinfectant wipes with you and disinfect changing tables, grocery carts, or other surfaces your baby’s hands or mouth might touch Keep yourself and your baby away from sick people. If you’re in a public place and cant avoid them altogether, keep at least six feet away from anyone who is coughing or sneezing. And let people know that they may not touch your baby’s hands or face because there is no telling what kids of germs could be spread. If your baby is over six months old, they will be able to benefit from the swine flu vaccine. Be sure to get it as soon as you can due to the fact that it will likely take two doses of the vaccine and immunity takes a while to develop after receiving the shot.